Activision may never officially patch split-screen into the PC version of Black Ops 1. But the modding community has proven that where there’s a will – and a couple of USB controllers – there’s a way.

Whether you’re reliving your high school sleepovers or introducing a new generation to the terrifying beauty of a zombie horde on Kino der Toten, this setup is your ticket to nostalgia. So grab a friend, pack a bowl (of Juggernog), and see how many rounds you can survive.

And if you run into any issues, revisit this guide, join the Nucleus Co-Op Discord, or leave a comment below. The zombies may be endless, but so is the ingenuity of PC gamers.

Now go install. And remember: the only thing worse than a horde of zombies is a horde of zombies with no split-screen partner.

Word count: ~2,200. Last updated: May 2026. Tested on Windows 11 23H2, NVIDIA RTX 3060, Steam build 45.1.2.

How to Play Call of Duty: Black Ops 1 Zombies Split Screen on PC Call of Duty: Black Ops 1 (BO1)

is legendary for its Zombies mode, but PC players were left out of the local split-screen fun that console players enjoyed. Fortunately, the modding community has bridged that gap. This guide walks you through using Nucleus Co-op, the most reliable tool for enabling split-screen on PC. Prerequisites

Nucleus Co-op: Download the latest version (v2.4.1 or higher) from the official website.

Black Ops 1 Installation: Ensure your game is installed and has been launched at least once. The Steam version is the most compatible with this method.

Extra Controllers: While you can use a keyboard and mouse for one player, additional players will need gamepads (Xbox, PlayStation, etc.). Step-by-Step Installation Guide 1. Set Up Nucleus Co-op

Extract the Files: Place the Nucleus Co-op folder on the root of your drive (e.g., C:\NucleusCoop) to avoid permission issues. Do not place it in Program Files or the game’s directory.

Run as Administrator: Right-click NucleusCoop.exe, go to Properties > Compatibility, and check "Run this program as an administrator". 2. Download and Add the BO1 Handler Open Nucleus Co-op and navigate to Download Game Handlers.

Search for Call of Duty: Black Ops and download the first option (often listed as the Plutonium or Steam version).

When prompted, select your BlackOps.exe file, typically found in your Steam common folder. 3. Configure Input and Split Screen

Assign Controllers: You will see a screen representing your monitor(s). Drag and drop your connected controllers into the splits you want (e.g., top/bottom or side-by-side).

Set Game Mode: Click the arrow to proceed to settings. Under Game Mode, select Zombies.

Graphics Settings: Adjust the graphics preset (Low, Med, High, Extra) based on your PC's power, as running multiple instances is demanding. 4. Launching the Match

Click Play. Nucleus will open several instances of the game and automatically resize them.

Start a Private Match: In the first instance, navigate to Zombies > Online > Private Match.

Connect Players: Once you’ve selected a map, press F2 on your keyboard (or the designated hotkey) to connect the other instances automatically. Pro Tips for a Smooth Experience

Input Locking: If you are using a mouse and keyboard alongside controllers, press the End key to lock your mouse to its window so it doesn't wander into other screens.

Quick Restart: Use F3 to quickly restart a match if things go south.

Closing the Game: Press Ctrl+Q to close all game instances and Nucleus Co-op simultaneously.

Firewall Issues: If instances won't connect, you may need to temporarily disable your Windows Firewall or add an exception for Black Ops.

Call of Duty Black Ops 1 split screen on PC with Nucleus Co-op

Call of Duty: Black Ops 1 (BO1) Zombies in split-screen on PC requires third-party tools, as the PC version does not natively support local co-op. Installation Guide for Split-Screen The most reliable way to achieve split-screen is by using Nucleus Co-Op

, a free tool that launches multiple instances of the game and syncs your controllers. Nucleus Co-Op How to Play Black Ops 1 On PC Multiplayer/Zombies + ALL DLC

Call of Duty: Black Ops 1 does not natively support split-screen on PC. To enable this feature for Zombies mode, you must use third-party tools like Nucleus Co-op, which creates multiple game instances and maps them to separate controllers. Requirements

Game Version: Confirmed to work with the Steam version of Black Ops 1.

Hardware: Multiple gamepads (controllers) or a combination of one mouse/keyboard and a gamepad. Software: Nucleus Co-op (free, open-source tool). Step-by-Step Installation Guide Install Nucleus Co-op: Download the latest version from the Nucleus Co-op website.

Extract the files to a dedicated folder (e.g., C:\NucleusCoop).

Right-click NucleusCoop.exe, select Properties > Compatibility, and check Run this program as an administrator. Download the Black Ops Handler:

Open Nucleus Co-op and navigate to the Download Game Handlers section.

Search for "Black Ops" and download the official handler for the first Black Ops title. Add the Game:

In Nucleus Co-op, click Add Game and locate your BlackOps.exe file, usually found in your Steam library folder (.../steamapps/common/Call of Duty Black Ops/). Configure the Layout: Select Black Ops from the list.

Assign your controllers to the screen split of your choice (e.g., Top/Bottom or Left/Right).

Note: If using a mouse and keyboard for one player, move the mouse to make it appear for assignment. Set Game Options: Click the arrow next to Play to see the handler options. Select Zombies as the game mode.

Set the Number of Players so the match waits for all instances to connect before starting.

Choose your preferred graphic settings (Low/Med/High/Extra). How to Start the Match

Click Play in Nucleus Co-op. The program will open, resize, and position multiple instances of the game.

In the first instance, navigate to Zombies > Find Match (or Private Match) and select your map.

Press F2 (or the designated hotkey in the handler notes) to start the connection process for the other instances.

Once all players have "readied up" and joined the lobby, the match will begin. Key Commands F2: Inject/Start match and connect instances. F3: Quick restart match.

End Key: Lock/Unlock mouse and keyboard input (required if playing with a mouse). Ctrl + Q: Close all game instances and Nucleus Co-op.

Call of Duty Black Ops 1 split screen on PC with Nucleus Co-op

Here is the solid content regarding Call of Duty: Black Ops 1 Zombies Split Screen on PC.

| Issue | Solution | |--------|----------| | Second player can’t join | Ensure controller is connected before launching the game. Use xinput_connect_controller 1 in console. | | Cursor appears on second screen | Disable raw mouse input in settings, or run in Windowed (Borderless) mode. | | Low FPS in split-screen | Lower resolution scaling and disable shadows/AA. | | Sound only for one player | Normal — the game uses shared audio. Use headphones splitter if needed. |

The ultimate undead co-op experience — no console required.

If Player 2 spawns but cannot look around:

Nucleus Co-Op is an open-source tool that allows split-screen by launching multiple instances of the game and automatically resizing them.

Download Nucleus Co-Op: Ensure you have the latest version (v2.4.1 or higher). Add the Game: Open Nucleus Co-Op and select Download Game Handler.

Search for "Call of Duty: Black Ops" and download the handler.

Locate your BlackOps.exe file (typically found in your Steam local files) to link the game. Setup Controllers:

Assign your controllers (gamepads, mouse, or keyboard) to different screen segments in the setup configuration.

For Zombies mode, select the number of players in the handler settings to ensure the match doesn't start until everyone is connected. Launch & Sync: Click Play. Multiple instances will open and resize.

In the first instance, set up an Online Private Match (even for local play).

Press F2 on your keyboard (or Select+X on a gamepad) to automatically connect the other instances. If you need to quickly restart a match, use F3. Alternative: ModDB "Splitscreen PC" Package

A standalone package specifically for split-screen is available on ModDB by the group Cod_Split.

Current Support: Version 1.0 supports two-player Zombies mode offline.

Installation: Download the v1.0 file from ModDB and follow the included instructions to replace specific game files.

Future Updates: A four-player update for Zombies is planned for this specific package. Essential Technical Tips

The most effective way to achieve split-screen is through the Nucleus Co-op

app. Instead of modifying game files directly, it launches multiple instances of the game and repositions them to fit your screen. Ease of Install: ★★★☆☆

The setup requires downloading the Nucleus Co-op app and a specific "handler" for Black Ops 1. It is confirmed to work with the Steam version, but other versions may be hit-or-miss. Performance: ★★★★☆

Since it runs separate instances, your PC needs enough power to handle multiple copies of the game simultaneously. However, BO1 is an older title, so most modern mid-range PCs handle it smoothly without the frame rate drops often seen on older consoles. Controller Support: ★★★★★

One of its best features is the ability to assign different gamepads to each instance or even mix a mouse/keyboard with a controller. Key Highlights of the Experience Total Player Count:

While consoles are limited, the Nucleus handler can support up to 4 players for Zombies and even more for Multiplayer. Hotkeys for Convenience: to automatically connect instances and

for a quick restart makes the "couch co-op" feel seamless once everything is running. Plutonium Integration: Advanced users can use the handler with , which offers better stability and mod support. Installation Steps Overview Download Nucleus Co-op from their official site or Download the Black Ops 1 Handler within the app by searching for the game. Direct the app BlackOps.exe file in your Steam library. Assign your controllers to the screen segments in the UI.

and use the in-game menus to start a private match; other instances should connect automatically or via a hotkey like

If you’re willing to spend 15 minutes on setup, this is the definitive way to play BO1 Zombies with friends on a single PC. It bypasses the "PC doesn't have LAN/Split-screen" limitation that has frustrated players for over a decade. that work best with this setup?

Call of Duty Black Ops 1 split screen on PC with Nucleus Co-op

This method uses the game’s built-in developer console.

Unlike its console counterparts, the PC version of Call of Duty: Black Ops 1 does not natively support split-screen out of the box for the Steam version. Enabling this feature requires modifying configuration files to unlock developer commands and properly mapping secondary input devices. This paper outlines the step-by-step process to enable two-player local cooperative play.

If the modding process seems too technical or the performance is too poor, the native intended way to play co-op on PC is Online.

Note: As of recent years, the Black Ops 1 server browser is populated by modded servers, but you can still find standard zombie lobbies or host your own private match.

Black Ops 1 Zombies Split Screen PC Install: A Step-by-Step Guide

Black Ops 1 Zombies is a classic game mode that has captured the hearts of many gamers. The game's thrilling gameplay, coupled with its intense zombie-killing action, makes it a must-play for fans of the Call of Duty franchise. However, many PC gamers have been struggling to set up a split-screen experience for Black Ops 1 Zombies, especially with the game's age and compatibility issues. In this article, we'll walk you through a step-by-step guide on how to install and play Black Ops 1 Zombies in split-screen mode on PC.

System Requirements and Prerequisites

Before you begin, ensure your PC meets the minimum system requirements for Black Ops 1:

Additionally, you'll need:

Step 1: Enable Split-Screen in Black Ops 1

To enable split-screen in Black Ops 1, follow these steps:

Step 2: Configure Controller Settings (Optional)

If you're using a controller, you'll need to configure the settings:

Step 3: Create a New Profile (For Non-Steam Users)

If you're not using Steam, you'll need to create a new profile to enable split-screen:

Step 4: Install the Zombies Map Pack (Optional)

If you want to play Zombies maps beyond the original Kino Der Toten, you'll need to install the Zombies Map Pack:

Step 5: Launch Zombies in Split-Screen Mode

Now that you've completed the previous steps, it's time to launch Zombies in split-screen mode:

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while trying to set up split-screen for Black Ops 1 Zombies on PC, here are some common problems and their solutions:

Conclusion

Setting up Black Ops 1 Zombies in split-screen mode on PC can be a bit tricky, but with these steps, you should be able to enjoy this classic game mode with your friends and family. Remember to ensure your PC meets the minimum system requirements, configure your controller settings (if necessary), and follow the steps outlined above. If you encounter any issues, refer to the troubleshooting section for common problems and solutions.

Additional Tips and Tricks

By following this guide, you'll be able to enjoy Black Ops 1 Zombies in split-screen mode on PC with ease. Gather your friends, grab some controllers, and get ready to take on the undead!

Official split-screen support for Call of Duty: Black Ops 1 is not available on PC.

To play Zombies in split-screen, you must use community-made tools like Nucleus Co-op

, which launches multiple game instances and connects them via a local network Preparation Requirements Game Version : This method is primarily verified for the Steam version of Black Ops 1.

: A PC capable of running multiple game instances simultaneously. Input Devices

: At least two controllers (XInput recommended) or one controller and one keyboard/mouse setup. Installation & Setup Guide Download Nucleus Co-op Get the latest version from the official Nucleus Co-op site

Extract the contents into a dedicated folder (do not use the installer; use the version for better stability). Add the Black Ops 1 Handler Open Nucleus Co-op and click Download Game Handlers

Search for "Call of Duty: Black Ops" and download the handler. Search Game and navigate to your game’s main directory to select BlackOps.exe Configure the Session Select the Black Ops icon in Nucleus Co-op. Choose the number of players/instances.

Drag and drop your controllers (or mouse/keyboard) into the split-screen partitions on the UI. Launch the Game

Click the play arrow. The app will launch multiple windows and automatically resize them to fit your screen. : If using a keyboard and mouse, you may need to press the

key once the windows are open to "lock" the input to the specific instance. Starting the Match In the first game instance, go to Find Match (or Private Match). Select your map and "Ready Up" on all instances.

(or the designated hotkey in the handler notes) to start the match and force all instances to connect. Troubleshooting & Quick Commands Restart Match for a quick restart. Exit All Instances to close the game and Nucleus Co-op simultaneously. Antivirus Flags

: Some handler files may be flagged as false positives; you might need to add an exception for the Nucleus Co-op folder in your antivirus software.

with this guide for enhanced server features and DLC access?

Screen Pc Install | Black Ops 1 Zombies Split